Clampdown on use of fake ID

DYFED-POWYS Police is working with local authorities to clamp down on the use of fake ID across the force area.

The force will be teaming up with licensed premises, local authorities and school liaison officers to tackle the use of fake ID, particularly by those under age.

Use of fake IDS is not a new issue and licensed premises across Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire and Powys are currently noticing an increase in this activity. This includes people using fake IDS, as well as people using genuine ID belonging to someone else.

Anyone using fake ID or purporting to be someone else using their genuine ID could be committing a number of offences which could result in a caution, a fine, or a possible sentence of up to 10 years imprisonment.

Louise Bradshaw, a licensing officer for Dyfed-powys Police, based in Ceredigion, said: “Some of the fake

IDS being produced are very good fake driving licences and 16 or 17 year olds are using these to gain entry into premises.

“These are often purchased online so it’s important that parents have an awareness and have conversations about what their children are doing online.

“We all know alcohol has health risk implications, but it also makes people vulnerable and we want to ensure that young people are protected.

“Licensed premises do not have the power to seize fake ID, nevertheless, they must uphold certain objectives under the Licensing Act, namely protection of children from harm, prevention of crime and disorder, public nuisance and public safety.”

Anyone with information about the use of fake ID is asked to report it to Dyfed-powys Police, either online at www.dyfed-powys.police.uk/contact/ af/contact-us/ or by emailing 101@ dyfed-powys.police.uk or by calling 101.